Special Publication

Economic Consequences of Earthquakes: Preparing for the Unexpected

Economic Consequences of Earthquakes: Preparing for the Unexpected, edited by Barclay
G. Jones, examines the ramifications of a large-scale earthquake in the U.S., while
considering preparedness options to minimize losses. This 275-plus page special
publication contains fifteen commissioned papers by experts in the fields of seismology,
engineering, sociology, business and insurance. These papers review and define:

The earthquake problem in the U.S.

The vulnerability of our built environment

The impact of damaged and destroyed facilities on social and economic systems

Precautionary measures to reduce exposure to risk.

This book is an excellent resource for business, financial and government policy
makers. The book is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of the U.S. earthquake
risk and its potential impact on the economy, and includes general recommendations toward
the implementation of loss-reduction measures. Topics addressed include:

Strategies for dealing with the earthquake hazards

Comparisons between Kobe, Japan and major U.S. metropolitan areas

Characteristics of earthquakes in the eastern and central United States

Issues in preparedness and mitigation

Mitigating risks to buildings, bridges and lifeline systems

Impact of earthquakes to businesses and the economy

How catastrophic losses impact the insurance industry

Recommendations for future action

The book costs $40.00. To order, contact NCEER Publications, phone: (716) 645-3391;
fax: (716) 645-3399; email: nceer@acsu.buffalo.edu.
This publication may also be obtained from this
link.